State Sen. Karen Spilka, D-Ashland, officially endorsed Treasurer Steve Grossman's candidacy for governor Thursday, citing his vision for the state, record of leadership and success of his Small Business Banking Partnership, which focuses on loans to businesses owned by women, minorities, immigrants and veterans.

"Steve's proven track record of leveling the playing field for hardworking middle-class families speaks for itself," Spilka said in a statement.

Grossman, a Democrat, became state treasurer in 2011 after a career as a small businessman, philanthropist and political activist.